Elpro DTS-SOLAR Operating Manual

The Elpro DTS-SOLAR is a solar-powered data transmission system designed for remote monitoring applications. It features integrated solar charging, long-range wireless communication, configurable sensor inputs, low-power operation, weather-resistant enclosure, and web-based configuration interface. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, setup, operation, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Connecting Devices 7. Data Transmission 8. Maintenance 9. Regulatory Information 10. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Solar panel with charge controller, Wireless transmitter module, Sensor input terminals, Status LEDs, Weatherproof enclosure, Antenna connector.

Feature	Description
Solar Panel	Integrated 20W panel for autonomous power
Battery	Sealed lead-acid battery for continuous operation
Wireless Transmitter	Long-range RF communication (868/915 MHz)
Sensor Inputs	4 analog/digital configurable inputs
Status LEDs	Power, Transmission, Error indicators
Antenna Connector	RP-SMA for external antenna connection
Enclosure Rating	IP65 weatherproof protection
Configuration Port	USB for setup and diagnostics
Mounting Bracket	Adjustable for optimal solar orientation
Charge Controller	MPPT for maximum solar efficiency

Installation

Unpack and inspect contents. Select location with maximum sunlight exposure.

Mount enclosure: Use provided bracket on stable surface or pole.
Orient solar panel: Adjust to face true south (northern hemisphere) at optimal angle.
Connect antenna: Attach external antenna to RP-SMA connector.
Connect sensors: Wire sensors to appropriate input terminals.
Secure all connections and close enclosure.

WARNING! Install during daylight with solar panel covered to prevent electrical shock. Ensure mounting surface can support weight.

First-Time Setup

Power on system; configure via USB connection.

Connect to computer: Use USB cable to connect configuration port.
Launch configuration software: Install and run Elpro Configuration Utility.
Set communication parameters: Configure transmission frequency, interval, and destination ID.
Configure sensor inputs: Set input type (4-20mA, 0-10V, digital) and scaling.
Save configuration and disconnect USB.

CAUTION! Ensure solar panel is receiving adequate sunlight before disconnecting USB. Verify all settings before final installation.

Specifications

Solar Panel: 20W monocrystalline.
Battery: 12V 7Ah sealed lead-acid.
Wireless Range: Up to 10km line-of-sight.
Frequency Bands: 868 MHz (EU) / 915 MHz (US).
Sensor Inputs: 4 channels, configurable analog/digital.
Transmission Interval: Configurable 1 minute to 24 hours.
Operating Temperature: -30°C to +60°C.
Enclosure: IP65 rated polycarbonate.
Dimensions: 300 x 200 x 150 mm.
Weight: 3.5 kg.

Controls and Settings

Access configuration via USB connection and Elpro Configuration Utility.

Status Indicators: POWER (green), TRANSMIT (blue), ERROR (red).

Configuration Parameters: Transmission frequency, Destination address, Data interval, Sensor calibration, Low battery threshold, Diagnostic mode.

Software Settings: Communication protocol (Modbus RTU), Data logging, Alarm thresholds, Time synchronization, Firmware updates.

Connecting Devices

Sensor Connections: Terminal blocks for 4 inputs. Antenna: RP-SMA connector. USB: Type B for configuration.

Power off system before making connections.
Connect sensors: Use shielded cable for analog signals.
Attach antenna: Hand-tighten only; do not over-torque.
Connect USB: For configuration only (not for continuous use).

Tip: Use weatherproof conduit for sensor cables. Ensure proper grounding for lightning protection.

Data Transmission

Supports continuous and interval-based data transmission.

Power on: System automatically begins transmission after configuration.
Monitor status: Check LEDs for transmission confirmation.
Data verification: Use receiving station software to confirm data reception.
Interval adjustment: Modify transmission rate via configuration software.
Diagnostic mode: Enable for troubleshooting transmission issues.
Low power mode: Automatically reduces transmission rate during low battery.

WARNING! Do not modify transmission frequency without proper licensing. Ensure compliance with local radio regulations.

Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance.

Monthly: Clean solar panel surface with soft cloth and water.
Quarterly: Check all cable connections and enclosure seals.
Annually: Verify battery condition and replace if necessary.
As needed: Update firmware via configuration software.

CAUTION! Disconnect solar panel before performing maintenance. Work during daylight hours only.

Regulatory Information

FCC Part 15: Class B digital device; complies with interference limits. CE marked for European compliance. RoHS compliant. Copyright © 2025 Elpro Instruments; all rights reserved. For support, visit www.elpro.com or contact +1-800-555-ELPRO.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No power indication	Solar panel/battery	Check solar panel orientation; verify battery connections; measure battery voltage.
No data transmission	Configuration/antenna	Verify configuration settings; check antenna connection; ensure receiving station is operational.
Inaccurate sensor readings	Calibration/wiring	Recalibrate sensor inputs; check wiring for shorts or opens; verify sensor power.
Frequent low battery	Solar panel/load	Clean solar panel; reduce transmission interval; check for excessive sensor load.
Configuration not saving	Software/connection	Update configuration software; ensure proper USB connection; restart system.

Reset: Press and hold configuration button for 10 seconds to restore factory defaults.

Service: +1-800-555-ELPRO; www.elpro.com/support